halt

UK: hɔːlt | US: hɔːlt

Definition

  1. v. to stop or cause to stop moving or progressing

  2. n. a temporary or permanent stop

Structure
halt <stop>
Etymology

The word "halt" originates from Old English healtian, which initially meant "to limp" or "be lame." Over time, its meaning shifted metaphorically to "stop" or "pause," likely due to the association of limping with an unsteady or interrupted motion. This evolution reflects how physical limitations can linguistically transform into broader concepts of cessation.

Examples

  1. The train halted abruptly at the red signal.

  2. The project came to a halt due to lack of funding.

  3. She halted mid-sentence when she noticed the error.

  4. The soldiers halted their march at the commander's order.

  5. Production was halted after the safety inspection.